Washington, 22 July  

US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, one of President Donald Trump's closest allies and an influential voice on American foreign policy, has died after what his office described as a "brief and sudden illness". He was 71.

Graham, who represented South Carolina in the Senate for more than two decades, was among the Republican Party's most outspoken supporters of Ukraine in its war against Russia and a leading advocate of tougher sanctions on Moscow.

Despite a bitter rivalry during the 2016 Republican presidential campaign, he went on to become one of Trump's closest political allies. Graham was a vocal critic of India’s purchases of Russian oil amid the Ukraine war.

Earlier this year, Graham cited US tariffs on India as "a good example of how things can change" while claiming that New Delhi had dramatically reduced its purchases of Russian oil.

"Clearly, the pressure we're applying to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin to come to the peace table and stop massive attacks against Ukraine is not working. President Trump's idea of going after Putin's oil customers who prop up his war machine should be pursued with vigour by the US and Europe," Graham had said.

His office announced his death in a statement posted on X.

"On the evening of Saturday, July 11, US Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness," the statement said. "Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period."

Later, President Trump said in a social media post: "Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!! DETAILS AND ARRANGEMENTS TO FOLLOW. So sad!"

NBC News reported that Graham was scheduled to appear on its Meet the Press programme on Sunday, following a recent visit to Ukraine, underscoring the suddenness of his death.

Born in South Carolina, Graham was first elected to the US House of Representatives in 1994 before winning election to the Senate in 2002. He took office as senator in January 2003 and was seeking another term this year. A lawyer by training, Graham also served in the US Air Force and Air Force Reserve, retiring with the rank of colonel.

Although he sharply criticised Trump during the 2016 Republican presidential primaries, the two later forged a close political relationship, with Graham emerging as one of the president's most dependable allies in Congress.

He was a strong supporter of Trump's judicial appointments, immigration policies and much of his foreign policy agenda, despite occasional differences.

"He's outstanding. He's been at my side for a long time," The Washington Post quoted Trump as saying at a tele-rally for Graham last month. Recalling their once-bitter rivalry, the president added: "After that fight was over, we were best of friends, and he's helped me as much as anybody in the Senate."